
Applicable cables: USB2.0, USB3.0, USB3.1, USB4.0
USB 3.1 Cables
Overview
Universal Serial Bus (USB) cables are the standard external bus for connecting computers to external devices, facilitating communication between them. These cables come in various types, such as USB Type-A, Type-B, Micro-USB, and the new Type-C. The Type-C connector, with its reversible design and high data transfer rates, has become the go-to interface for smartphones, tablets, and other devices. USB 3.1/4.0, also known as "Super Speed USB," is a high-speed USB standard that can connect to a variety of external devices, including printers, keyboards, and mice. Compared to the earlier USB 1.0/1.1 and USB 2.0, USB 3.1 has improved greatly in terms of transfer speed and power consumption, making it one of today's advanced USB specifications.
Key Features
Transfer Speed
USB 3.1 boasts a maximum transfer speed of 10Gbps, which is double that of USB 3.0's 5Gbps, allowing for more efficient file backups, data copying, and media transfers. The actual effective bandwidth is approximately 7.2Gbps, with a theoretical transfer speed capable of reaching 900MB/s, effectively doubling the speed of USB 3.0.
Functional Expansion
USB 3.1 introduces several new functionalities, such as charger detection, audio transmission, and display output, enabling users to perform more operations through a single interface. Additionally, USB 3.1 employs good energy management techniques, enhancing energy efficiency and supporting longer power cable distances.
Interface Types
USB 3.1 utilizes the smaller Type-C interface, which offers reversible plug orientation, high-speed data transfer, and charging capabilities, making it the popular USB interfaces in current use.
Version Differences
USB 3.1 encompasses two distinct versions: USB 3.1 Gen1 and USB 3.1 Gen2. USB 3.1 Gen1 shares the same maximum transfer speed as USB 3.0, reaching 5Gbps, while USB 3.1 Gen2 can achieve a maximum transfer speed of 10Gbps. This means that USB 3.1 Gen2 can facilitate faster data transfer, enhancing user productivity.
Conclusion
In summary, USB 3.1 represents a new generation of high-speed USB standards that have seen significant improvements in transfer speed, functional expansion, and interface types.